How to Visit Hawaii on a Budget

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Every year, Hawaii's island paradises attract thousands of visitors from around the world who come for the region's warm waters and balmy breezes. These visitors spent an average of $150 per day on their Hawaiian vacation in 2009, according to the state government. Employ several strategies to beat the statistics and save your hard-earned money so that you can enjoy more Hawaiian fun in the sun without emptying your bank account.

Step 1

Book your flight during an off-peak period when airfare may be cheaper. Hawaii's peak travel periods are during the winter months of December through February, plus the end of summer in August. Flying to and from the state Friday through Sunday is also typically more expensive.

Step 2

Stay at a two- or three-star hotel or resort, and don't pay extra for a hotel that's on the beach. Though lower-star accommodations may not have the amenities offered by a higher-rated property, you won't be spending much time in your hotel room. Paying extra for an oceanfront hotel is also needless, as Hawaii is an island, and all properties are a short walk or drive to the beach.

Step 3

Dine where the locals eat. Restaurants and cafes in Hawaii's tourist districts are typically overpriced. Ask the staff at your hotel for recommendations, or simply go for a drive and explore the neighborhoods outside of the hotel zone.

Step 4

Shop at Hawaii's many local farmers' markets where you'll often find fruits like coconuts and guavas, as well as souvenirs and gifts, like bottled jams and Hawaiian crafts. Prices at such markets are usually more budget-friendly than those found in tourist shops. Find the nearest market on the Hawaii Department of Agriculture's website (see Resources).

Step 5

Browse the coupon booklets offered at the airport on each island, as well as on stands near hotels. These often include money-saving coupons for popular activities, such as Hawaiian luaus or hula shows.

Step 6

Calculate the advantages of buying your own beach equipment instead of renting it. This is especially true if you're staying in Hawaii for an extended period of time. For example, renting a snorkel set for $15 per day may be cheaper than buying a $40 set at a surf shop if you plan to snorkel only once, but it would be cheaper to own your own if you plan to use it for three days or more.

Tips

Be flexible with your arrival and departure dates and times. A simple day change can save you money. Ask the airline or your travel agent to see the prices for a three-day window around your proposed dates as well as the price differences between morning and evening flights.

For quick and cheap dining, try Hawaii's local fast food chains, such as Zippy's Restaurants and L&L; Hawaiian Barbecues.

Warning

Don't try to save money by not buying sunscreen. Hawaii's sun can be brutal, especially if your skin is not used to so much sun exposure.

Resources

About the Author

Joshua Duvauchelle is a certified personal trainer and health journalist, relationships expert and gardening specialist. His articles and advice have appeared in dozens of magazines, including exercise workouts in Shape, relationship guides for Alive and lifestyle tips for Lifehacker. In his spare time, he enjoys yoga and urban patio gardening.

Leaf Group is a USA TODAY content partner providing general travel information. Its content is produced independently of USA TODAY.